History in the making

So, this is the summer that I am going to grow a plant. Hopefully actually plantS if it all goes according to plans- I am hoping that this is the summer that I can grow five plants all on my own. I love using mint in my water and my cooking, so I am starting out with a mint plant. I don’t know that it is the easiest herb to grow but that is where I am making the first step! I found this kit at a bookstore, and I decided that this is time to try my thumb at being green…

This kit was $10 CAD! It includes a flower pot, clay spheres (in place of rocks), an eco-coir (a non-soil matter), and mint and anise seeds. I don’t love anise so I am just working with the mint. I’m not overly familiar with the costs of gardening but this doesn’t seem like an expensive kit. Thankfully they have provided instructions that are straightforward and easy to follow for a plant-challenged person such as myself. So, how did I make the magic happen?

I started by adding warm water to the eco-coir. I wasn’t sure if it would actually absorb 1 3/4 cups of water or how long it would take to do so- the answers are: yes, it did absorb all of the water, and it took roughly 2 minutes. It started about 4 inches across and just under an inch high and ended up roughly 6-7 inches tall! (It’s actually pretty freaking cool. Way to go, coconut matter puck!)

After putting the clay spheres in the bottom of the pot- which I’m told is for drainage- you scoop all of the expanded eco-coir into the pot (save for 1/4 cup, you end up ditching it). I made some tiny rows and dumped non-existent mint seeds into them. I do not understand anything for the life of me as to how these tiny dots are going to turn into a plant but I’m told they will…….

To end off this process, I had to saran wrap the top of the plant in order for it to germinate faster. I don’t know if I believe this will speed anything up but I’m going to keep you all updated on our progress as it goes!

Please send me your growing tips and advice! What is your number one tip for me?

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7 thoughts on “How to Grow Plants”

josypheenMay 10, 2017 / 4:53 am

Good luck!

I managed to kill of mint when I grew it from seeds BUT it is SUCH an easy plant to keep alive if you buy a grown up version. If this doesn’t work, but one that has already made it past the seed stage.

Good luck girl! Also lavender and rosemary are awesome to keep around. Rosemary is one you can cook with. I’ve heard of people using lavender with baking. But lavender is also considered a “lucky” plant and you place it next to your garden gate for luck. Rosemary just is amazing as far as smell goes!